Explain briefly the policy adopted by Akbar towards the Rajputs.

Akbar had realised that he needed the support of Rajputs to consolidate his empire so he adopted a friendly policy towards them. He appointed the Rajputs at high positions in the administration. For example, Raja Bihari Mal and his son Bhagwandas, Raja Man Singh, Raja Todar Mal, Birbal, etc., were given high posts in the administration.
Akbar made Rajputs his relatives through matrimonial alliances. He married the daughter of Raja Bharmal of Amer, Harka Bai. He also married two Rajput princesses of Bikaner.
However, Akbar followed an aggressive policy towards those Rajput rulers who refused to accept his suzerainty. For example, Mewar refused to accept Mughal suzerainty. The Rajputs led by Rana Pratap of Mewar fought a furious battle with the Mughal forces at Haldighati. The Rajputs were defeated and Rana Pratap escaped into a mountain fortress.